Evelyn Alta Wheeler of Cedartown, Georgia passed away December 3, 2021 in Chattanooga, Tennessee where she lived for the last five years near her daughter Evelyn Wheeler.
She is preceded in death by her husband of sixty years, Frank W. Wheeler, sisters Alien Gray, Catherine Watts, Louella Woody, Jean Pierce and brothers Wallace Pierce, Charles Pierce, Robert Pierce and four nephews, two nieces, and a great nephew. She is survived by her daughter and by a number of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and great, great nieces and nephews.
Alta Wheeler was born in Spring Garden, Alabama in 1925 to Lucien and Doris Pierce. She lived the majority of her adult life in Cedartown with Frank and their daughter, Evelyn.
She was a dedicated employee at Arrow Shirt Company for over twenty years.
Alta was extremely giving and incredibly generous toward all who crossed her path. Her care of and love for her family was unparalleled. She was a dedicated and loyal wife who took extraordinary care of Frank when he faced a life-threatening and lengthy illness. Alta loved her daughter deeply and was proud of the life Evelyn lives. Her gift of hospitality meant an “open door” toward friends and family who were constantly in and out.
She was an excellent cook and never willingly let anyone leave on an empty stomach.
Those who knew Alta spoke of her character marked by resilience and determination in the face of life’s challenges. She lived life with contentment no matter her circumstance and with an appreciation of others that she expressed in various ways. Both of these qualities contributed to her long life.
She brightened the life of those around her to the very end. Even as she became weaker and could no longer care for herself, she was so often concerned that those caring for her had eaten, were comfortable, and had “lunch money.”
Her residence in Chattanooga for the last four years of her life was Martin Boyd Christian Home. Alta’s family and friends will be forever grateful for the support and exceptional care she received while living there. Much appreciation is also held for Grace Home Primary Care and Sherry Glover who was incredibly attentive and oversaw Alta’s health care.
Deep gratitude is also held for Hospice of Chattanooga and the extraordinary and constant support that was offered. Kim Sweeton, Alta’s Hospice nurse, consistently provided thoughtful and compassionate care and was truly God-sent.
Alta was ready to go to her heavenly Home after a long and fruitful life, but she will be greatly missed by those who knew her. “But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, “DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory. O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING” (1 Cor 15:54-55)
Glory! Death has been conquered! AND our Savior holds the keys!
